For many travelers, paying up to £5000 for a first class business ticket in order to fly in comfort simply isn't an option. However, what people don't realize is that most airlines will upgrade passengers for free, but only if they meet certain guidelines. These five top tips come direct from the check in staff of some of the best-known airlines.

Tip Number 1:

Look the part. Make sure you are wearing a smart dress code when you travel. There is no possibility of you getting a free upgrade if you are wearing something like a pair of shorts and a scruffy t-shirt. There is no need to go overboard though and wear a suit. You just need to look smart, but don't make it look like your trying to get upgraded.

Tip Number 2:

Turn up early. The check-in staff will know exactly how many passengers are going to be travelling on each flight well in advance, so if there are seats to spare in business class they will know right away.

Tip Number 3:

Be well-mannered. Would you reward a person who starts shouting at you and being unpleasant, or someone who is well-mannered? There may be 1000 more people in the queue behind you, so make you are remember-able. Flirt, smile, use their name, be polite, and you may well get a satisfying result.

Tip Number 4:

ASK. You will never get anything if you don't ask for it, but be sure to ask at the right time. If the check-in staff is looking worse for ware or just not responding to your attempts you make them smile, then you will have to wait till you get to the gate before asking. If the check-in staff has responded well, when they ask you if you have any specific seat request, be mischievously and declare 'First Class' to them. It might just work.